2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid vs 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE was a vehicle that, despite its improvements, struggled to captivate with its exterior design. It retained a somewhat rushed appearance, reminiscent of its predecessors, with a promising aggressive nose that lost its allure past the A-pillar. The flat taillights and contoured rear attempted to counter its minivan-like tendencies, but the GLE still fell short of the pitch-perfect proportions seen in competitors like BMW or Audi. However, the interior was a different story, showcasing a masterpiece of quality, layout, and textures. The red and black interior was both bold and luxurious, surpassing even high-end SUVs from Porsche or Audi. The GLE's interior exuded a sense of pampering, with delightful materials and a sophisticated design, although some controls like the gear selector felt flimsy.

In contrast, the 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid took styling cues from the Tacoma pickup, giving it a rugged appearance with a trapezoidal grille and upright fascia. However, the design introduced some softness with a character line that added unnecessary visual weight, making it appear slightly bloated. The rear design echoed the front's trapezoidal theme, but the overall body felt disjointed compared to more cohesive designs in its class. Inside, the Highlander's interior was unconventional yet less jarring, with an asymmetrical dash and a metallic styling element that added storage functionality. The infotainment system was positioned for easy access, and the Bronze Edition featured unique elements like bronze alloy wheels and light grey fabric upholstery, though the latter was prone to dirt and stains. The Highlander's interior materials trailed behind competitors, but its hybrid status offered a unique appeal in its class.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE excelled as a multi-purpose vehicle with a complex suspension and engine setup. The GLE 350 featured a coil-sprung setup, while the GLE 450 offered AIRMATIC with self-leveling air springs. The AMG Ride Control+ and E-Active Body Control provided advanced handling capabilities, allowing the GLE to lean into turns like a motorcyclist. The AMG GLE 53 Coupe featured an electric supercharger for instant throttle response, though it wasn't as exhilarating as expected. The GLE's hybrid system, EQ Boost, provided additional horsepower and torque, enhancing the driving experience without significantly improving fuel efficiency. The GLE's towing capacity was impressive at 3,500 kilograms, and its ride quality and steering were exceptional, making it feel agile despite its size.

The 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid was powered by a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine and hybrid system, producing 243 horsepower. It featured a continuously variable transmission and standard all-wheel drive, with an electric motor powering the rear axle. The Highlander Hybrid's acceleration was quick but tepid, with the gasoline engine providing adequate power. The CVT's lack of gear shifts resulted in a droning engine sound, especially when climbing hills. The braking system was smooth, with regenerative braking seamlessly transitioning to physical brakes. The Highlander Hybrid offered a soft ride quality, with a suspension that effectively smoothed over road imperfections. While not sporty, it provided adequate handling for a family vehicle, and the cabin remained quiet on highways.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE offered a spacious interior, with most models featuring two rows of seats and an optional third row for seven-passenger seating. The second-row seats had power controls for added comfort, and the third row was accessible via sliding and folding seats. The Coupe body style accommodated five passengers, though the rear space felt constricted due to the sloping roofline and large rear tires. Cargo capacity was generous, with 630 litres behind the second row and 2,055 litres with all rows folded. The MBUX infotainment system improved usability, with a simplified interface and touchpad controls, though some features required setup before driving.

The 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid provided comfortable front seats with ample adjustments, though the driver's door armrest was awkwardly positioned. Storage options were plentiful, with trays, shelves, and large door pockets. The second-row seats were spacious, accommodating taller passengers with ease, and offered sliding and reclining capabilities. The third row was less accommodating, suitable for occasional use by children or smaller adults. Cargo space was limited behind the third row at 453 litres but expanded to 1,370 litres with the seats folded. The Highlander Hybrid offered a hands-free power liftgate on higher trims, enhancing convenience.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE featured a 12-inch touchscreen with Interior Assistant, allowing gesture control for various functions. The system was intuitive, with search bars and larger type for easy navigation. AMG models included a Track Pace app for performance tracking, and the Seat Kinetics feature adjusted seating positions for comfort. The GLE offered a range of luxury features, including heated armrests, ambient lighting with 64 colours, and a natural voice assistant. The semi-automated functionality provided advanced driving assistance, making the GLE a technologically advanced vehicle.

The 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid offered an 8-inch infotainment touchscreen, with a 12.3-inch option available on top trims. The system was responsive, with logically organized menus and physical shortcut buttons for convenience. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, with wireless charging available on higher trims. The Highlander Hybrid included limited trial periods for satellite radio and remote vehicle monitoring. Navigation and a premium audio system were standard on higher trims, enhancing the overall technology package.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE received top safety ratings, earning the IIHS Top Safety Pick+ and a five-star rating from the NHTSA. It featured a range of safety and driver assistance technologies, including blind-spot monitoring, adaptive cruise control, and lane-keeping assist. The GLE offered advanced features like Pre-Safe Sound and Pre-Safe Impulse Side for enhanced protection in a crash. The vehicle's stability control and braking systems were designed to enhance safety and performance.

The 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid also achieved high safety ratings, with a five-star NHTSA rating and the IIHS Top Safety Pick+ designation. Standard safety features included adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keep assist. Higher trims offered additional features like a surround-view camera system and head-up display. While the safety systems generally performed well, some features like adaptive cruise control and lane-keep assist required fine-tuning for optimal performance.